The best one I have seen on broadway was Paul Vogt. George Wendt was also good but Paul was better I think.
Paul and George approach the role differently. For example Paul's "Timeless to Me" was jokey and fun but George's came off as a true love song.
Broadway Legend Joined: 5/19/03
I've seen three Ednas (Fierstein, Vilanch and, on tour, O'Boyle) and thought they all did great jobs...Vilanch, however, killed with the ad-libs during "Timeless to Me." His "in six months, Britney Spears will look just like me" was oddly prophetic.
Was not a fan of Travolta in the movie. You could see what he was TRYING to do with part, but it was very self-concious and I don't think he found his footing until well into the movie. Since the rest of the cast was so on-target, he stuck out like the proverbial sore thumb.
Harvey and Ball
Harvey - I thought he was the funniest.
There really shouldn't be much of a competition. Harvey is perfection in the role in almost every way. Everyone else was just fine (at least the performances I saw) .. nothing was anywhere near as funny and irreverent and oddly touching as Fierstein's performance.
Michael Ball is outstanding in the role, probably my fave Edna. Divine also mastered it (as well as created). Unpopular-wise, I really liked Travolta's and (judging from OBCR) I don't like Fierstein's voice... it's too grotesque for my liking.
It's between Paul Vogt and Harvey.
I can't choose
Broadway Legend Joined: 8/14/07
Harvey Fierstein
Jerry O' boyle
I really enjoyed Bruce Vilanch
Add me to the list of those whose favorite Edna is Michael Ball...
Videos